Cross-linked Sodium Hyaluronate Gel with PLLA-b-PEG Microsphere for Facial Contouring in Chinese: A Retrospective Study.

BACKGROUND: In Asia, the demand for cosmetic facial treatments has surged due to technological advancements, increased social acceptability, and affordability. Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) fillers, known for their biocompatibility and biodegradability, have emerged as a popular choice for facial contouring, yet studies specifically addressing their use in Asian populations are scarce. METHODS: This retrospective study examined 30 Chinese patients who underwent facial contouring with PLLA fillers, focusing on product composition, injection techniques, and safety measures. A comprehensive clinical evaluation was performed, including the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) and Global Impression of Change Scale (GICS) for effectiveness and patient satisfaction, respectively. RESULTS: No significant difference in GAIS scores was observed between injectors and blinded evaluators over a 12-month period, indicating consistent effectiveness. Patient satisfaction remained high, with GICS scores reflecting positive outcomes. The safety profile was favorable, with no serious adverse events reported. The study highlighted the importance of anatomical knowledge to avoid complications, particularly in areas prone to blindness. CONCLUSIONS: PLLA fillers offer a safe, effective option for facial contour correction in the Asian population, achieving high patient satisfaction and maintaining results over time. The study underscores the need for tailored approaches in cosmetic procedures for Asians, considering their unique facial structures and aesthetic goals. Further research with larger, multicenter cohorts is recommended to validate these findings and explore long-term effects. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Biodegradable Poly (L-Lactic acid) Fibrous Membrane with Ribbon-Structured Fibers and Ultrafine Nanofibers Enhances Air Filtration Performance.

Here, the poly (l-lactic acid) (PLLA) membrane with multi-structured networks (MSN) is successfully prepared by electrospinning technology for the first time. It is composed of micron-sized ribbon-structured fibers and ultrafine nanofibers with a diameter of tens of nanometers, and they are connected to form the new network structure. Thanks to the special fiber morphology and structure, the interception and electrostatic adsorption ability for against atmospheric particulate matter (PM) are significantly enhanced, and the resistance to airflow is reduced due to the "slip effect" caused by ultrafine nanofibers. The PLLA MSN membrane shows excellent filtration performance with ultra-high filtration efficiency (>99.9% for PM2.5 and >99.5% for PM0.3) and ultra-low pressure drop (≈20 Pa). It has demonstrated filtration performance that even exceeds current non-biodegradable polymer materials, laying the foundation for future applications of biodegradable PLLA in the field of air filtration. In addition, this new structure also provides a new idea for optimizing the performance of other polymer materials.

Poly-L-lactic acid fillers for nasal alar retraction: safety and effectiveness in 13 cases.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the effectiveness and safety of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) fillers in treating nasal alar retraction. We conducted a series of case reports on 13 patients treated for nasal alar retraction at the Chengdu Ningyue FRESKIN Medicine Cosmology Clinic from September 2022 to July 2023. Patients ranged from 23 to 49 years, comprising 12 females and 1 male. Of these, 5 had no prior medical history, 7 had previously undergone rhinoplasty, and 1 had a history of nasal trauma. Treatment outcomes and adverse reactions were monitored following PLLA filler injections. The mean pre-treatment severity score was 1.62±0.65, improving to 0.54±0.66 post-treatment (t=4.19, df=23, P<0.001). All participants reported satisfaction with their results without adverse effects. PLLA facial fillers are a safe and effective treatment for nasal alar retraction, presenting no embolism risk. This treatment merits consideration for broader clinical application.

Piezo1 Activation Drives Enhanced Collagen Synthesis in Aged Animal Skin Induced by Poly L-Lactic Acid Fillers.

Poly L-lactic acid (PLLA) fillers stimulate collagen synthesis by activating various immune cells and fibroblasts. Piezo1, an ion channel, responds to mechanical stimuli, including changes in extracellular matrix stiffness, by mediating Ca2+ influx. Given that elevated intracellular Ca2+ levels trigger signaling pathways associated with fibroblast proliferation, Piezo1 is a pivotal regulator of collagen synthesis and tissue fibrosis. The aim of the present study was to investigate the impact of PLLA on dermal collagen synthesis by activating Piezo1 in both an H2O2-induced cellular senescence model in vitro and aged animal skin in vivo. PLLA elevated intracellular Ca2+ levels in senescent fibroblasts, which was attenuated by the Piezo1 inhibitor GsMTx4. Furthermore, PLLA treatment increased the expression of phosphorylated ERK1/2 to total ERK1/2 (pERK1/2/ERK1/2) and phosphorylated AKT to total AKT (pAKT/AKT), indicating enhanced pathway activation. This was accompanied by upregulation of cell cycle-regulating proteins (CDK4 and cyclin D1), promoting the proliferation of senescent fibroblasts. Additionally, PLLA promoted the expression of phosphorylated mTOR/S6K1/4EBP1, TGF-ß, and Collagen I/III in senescent fibroblasts, with GsMTx4 treatment mitigating these effects. In aged skin, PLLA treatment similarly upregulated the expression of pERK1/2/ERK1/2, pAKT/AKT, CDK4, cyclin D1, mTOR/S6K1/4EBP1, TGF-ß, and Collagen I/III. In summary, our findings suggest Piezo1's involvement in PLLA-induced collagen synthesis, mediated by heightened activation of cell proliferation signaling pathways such as pERK1/2/ERK1/2, pAKT/AKT, and phosphorylated mTOR/S6K1/4EBP1, underscoring the therapeutic potential of PLLA in tissue regeneration.

Accelerated degradation testing impacts the degradation processes in 3D printed amorphous PLLA.

Additive manufacturing and electrospinning are widely used to create degradable biomedical components. This work presents important new data showing that the temperature used in accelerated tests has a significant impact on the degradation process in amorphous 3D printed poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA) fibres. Samples (c. 100 µ m diameter) were degraded in a fluid environment at 37 ° C, 50 ° C and 80 ° C over a period of 6 months. Our findings suggest that across all three fluid temperatures, the fibres underwent bulk homogeneous degradation. A three-stage degradation process was identified by measuring changes in fluid pH, PLLA fibre mass, molecular weight and polydispersity index. At 37 ° C, the fibres remained amorphous but, at elevated temperatures, the PLLA crystallised. A short-term hydration study revealed a reduction in glass transition (Tg), allowing the fibres to crystallise, even at temperatures below the dry Tg. The findings suggest that degradation testing of amorphous PLLA fibres at elevated temperatures changes the degradation pathway which, in turn, affects the sample crystallinity and microstructure. The implication is that, although higher temperatures might be suitable for testing bulk material, predictive testing of the degradation of amorphous PLLA fibres (such as those produced via 3D printing or electrospinning) should be conducted at 37 ° C.

Clinical applications of a novel poly-L-lactic acid microsphere and hyaluronic acid suspension for facial depression filling and rejuvenation.

BACKGROUND: Poly L-lactic acid (PLLA) can stimulate fibrous tissue regeneration to exert a filling effect. However, severe inflammatory reactions and unsatisfactory effects remain a concern. OBJECTIVE: Herein, we describe the mechanism of action, efficacy, and safety of PLLA microspheres in suspension (PLLA-b-PEG/HA) for facial contouring and soft tissue augmentation. METHODS: PLLA-b-PEG/HA, ssynthesized by copolymerization with ethylene glycol, were suspended in hyaluronic acid (HA). Physiological verification was performed using scanning electron microscopy and X-ray computed tomography. PLLA-b-PEG/HA were subcutaneously injected into the dorsal region of 4-month-old rabbits. Ultrasound assessed volumetric capacity at 3 days and 1, 2, 4, and 12 weeks. The inflammatory response, collagen production, and HA degradation were evaluated. A retrospective case series of 10 patients who received PLLA-b-PEG/HA injections was conducted to assess long-term efficacy and safety. RESULTS: PLLA-b-PEG exhibited a spherical structure with a smooth surface (20-45 µm diameter). In rabbits, implant site volume increased within 4 weeks, gradually decreasing thereafter. Fibrous capsules, microvessel density, and new collagen fiber formation progressively increased at 4, 12, and 26 weeks after injection. Clinical data demonstrated significant improvements in face contouring at months 3 and 12 after injection. All patients showed improved internal contours based on the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale. After 12 months, 90% of the patients retained good shaping and support effects with minimal adverse reactions. CONCLUSIONS: PLLA-b-PEG/HA demonstrated superior biocompatibility and facial regeneration potential, with outstanding dual collagen-stimulating properties. The clinical efficacy and safety of PLLA-b-PEG/HA have been validated and established as a promising therapeutic option.

Controlled Release of Curcumin and Hypocrellin A from Electrospun Poly(l-Lactic Acid)/Silk Fibroin Nanofibers for Enhanced Cancer Cell Inhibition.

Nanofibers have emerged as a highly effective method for drug delivery, attributed to their remarkable porosity and ability to regulate drug release rates while minimizing toxicity and side effects. In this study, we successfully loaded the natural anticancer drugs curcumin (CUR) and hypocrellin A (HA) into pure poly(l-lactic acid) (PLLA) and PLLA-silk protein (PS) composite nanofibers through electrospinning technology. This result was confirmed through comprehensive analysis involving SEM, FTIR, XRD, DSC, TG, zeta potential, and pH stability analysis. The encapsulation efficiency of all samples exceeded 85%, demonstrating the effectiveness of the loading process. Additionally, the drug release doses were significantly higher in the composites compared to pure PLLA, owing to the enhanced crystallinity and stability of the silk proteins. Importantly, the composite nanofibers exhibited excellent pH stability in physiological and acidic environments. Furthermore, the drug-loaded composite nanofibers displayed strong inhibitory effects on cancer cells, with approximately 28% (HA) and 37% (CUR) inhibition of cell growth and differentiation within 72 h, while showing minimal impact on normal cells. This research highlights the potential for controlling drug release through the manipulation of fiber diameter and crystallinity, paving the way for wider applications of electrospun green nanomaterials in the field of medicine.

Poly-L-Lactic Acid Reduces the Volume of Dermal Adipose Tissue Through its Metabolite Lactate.

Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a well-established biostimulator that induces collagenases, is widely used among clinical practice to treat skin aging. However, the precise regulatory effect of PLLA on different dermal cell subsets beyond fibroblast has not been fully elucidated. In this study, we constructed in vivo PLLA injection and in vitro PLLA-adipocyte co-culture models to analyze the regulatory effects of PLLA on the volume, differentiation, lipolysis, and thermogenic capacity of dermal adipocyte. We found that PLLA injection significantly reduced the thickness of dermal fat in mice. In co-culture assay, PLLA showed no effect on adipogenesis, but stimulated the lipolysis activity. Interestingly, PLLA also enhanced the differentiation of fat cells into beige fat cells, which possess higher thermogenic capacity. In mechanical study, we blocked adipocyte lactate uptake with a monocarboxylate transporter (MCT1/4) inhibitor and found that the regulatory effect of PLLA on dermal adipocyte relies on its metabolite lactate. In summary, our results suggest that PLLA has complex regulatory effects on the dermal cells, and its ability to improve skin aging is not fully attributed to stimulating collagen synthesis, but also partially involves adipocytes.No Level Assigned This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each submission to which Evidence-Based Medicine rankings are applicable. This excludes Review Articles, Book Reviews, and manuscripts that concern Basic Science, Animal Studies, Cadaver Studies, and Experimental Studies. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Management of androgenic alopecia: a systematic review of the literature.

We aimed to determine the efficacy of the various available oral, topical, and procedural treatment options for hair loss in individuals with androgenic alopecia. Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, a systematic review of the National Library of Medicine was performed. Overall, 141 unique studies met our inclusion criteria. We demonstrate that many over the counter (e.g. topical minoxidil, supplements, low-level light treatment), prescription (e.g. oral minoxidil, finasteride, dutasteride), and procedural (e.g. platelet-rich plasma, fractionated lasers, hair transplantation) treatments successfully promote hair growth, highlighting the superiority of a multifaceted and individualized approach to management.

Comprehensive Systematic Review of Poly-L-lactic Acid in Facial Clinical Application.

OBJECTIVES: With the increasing global clinical application of regenerative injection materials, there is a growing recognition of the crucial role played by poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA). The aim of this study is to conduct a systematic review on the therapeutic efficacy and safety of PLLA in clinical applications for facial treatments. METHODS: We conducted a search of the PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Wanfang databases, followed by screening of the retrieved articles based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. We then performed an analysis on the final set of included articles that met our inclusion criteria. Within these included articles, quality assessment for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was carried out using the Jadad scale, while non-randomized controlled trials (non-RCTs) were evaluated using the MINORS scale. RESULTS: Our search of above database, using the relevant search terms, yielded a total of 1300 PLLA-related articles. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 1280 articles were excluded. Only 20 articles, 16 in English and 4 in Chinese, were included in our final analysis, among them 16 NRCTs and 4 RCTs. According to the different clinical evaluation standards, the treatment of PLLA has achieved good outcomes. Most PLLA injection-related adverse events are mild and self-limited, without any additional treatment requirement. CONCLUSION: PLLA is a reasonably safe and effective facial injection material that can be applied in different facial injection areas and depth using various reconstitute and injection methods. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE I: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Poly-l-Lactic Acid Scaffolds Additivated with Rosmarinic Acid: A Multi-Analytical Approach to Assess The Morphology, Thermal Behavior, and Hydrophilicity.

This study aims to demonstrate the possibility of incorporating a natural antioxidant biomolecule into polymeric porous scaffolds. To this end, Poly-l-Lactic Acid (PLLA) scaffolds were produced using the Thermally Induced Phase Separation (TIPS) technique and additivated with different amounts of rosmarinic acid (RA). The scaffolds, with a diameter of 4 mm and a thickness of 2 mm, were characterized with a multi-analytical approach. Specifically, Scanning Electron Microscopy analyses demonstrated the presence of an interconnected porous network, characterized by a layer of RA at the level of the pore's surfaces. Moreover, the presence of RA biomolecules increased the hydrophilic nature of the sample, as evidenced by the decrease in the contact angle with water from 128° to 76°. The structure of PLLA and PLLA containing RA molecules has been investigated through DSC and XRD analyses, and the obtained results suggest that the crystallinity decreases when increasing the RA content. This approach is cost-effective, and it can be customized with different biomolecules, offering the possibility of producing porous polymeric structures containing antioxidant molecules. These scaffolds meet the requirements of tissue engineering and could offer a potential solution to reduce inflammation associated with scaffold implantation, thus improving tissue regeneration.

Optimizing the Biocompatibility of PLLA Stent Materials: Strategy with Biomimetic Coating.

Background: Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) stents have broad application prospects in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases due to their excellent mechanical properties and biodegradability. However, foreign body reactions caused by stent implantation remain a bottleneck that limits the clinical application of PLLA stents. To solve this problem, the biocompatibility of PLLA stents must be urgently improved. Albumin, the most abundant inert protein in the blood, possesses the ability to modify the surface of biomaterials, mitigating foreign body reactions-a phenomenon described as the "stealth effect". In recent years, a strategy based on albumin camouflage has become a focal point in nanomedicine delivery and tissue engineering research. Therefore, albumin surface modification is anticipated to enhance the surface biological characteristics required for vascular stents. However, the therapeutic applicability of this modification has not been fully explored. Methods: Herein, a bionic albumin (PDA-BSA) coating was constructed on the surface of PLLA by a mussel-inspired surface modification technique using polydopamine (PDA) to enhance the immobilization of bovine serum albumin (BSA). Results: Surface characterization revealed that the PDA-BSA coating was successfully constructed on the surface of PLLA materials, significantly improving their hydrophilicity. Furthermore, in vivo and in vitro studies demonstrated that this PDA-BSA coating enhanced the anticoagulant properties and pro-endothelialization effects of the PLLA material surface while inhibiting the inflammatory response and neointimal hyperplasia at the implantation site. Conclusion: These findings suggest that the PDA-BSA coating provides a multifunctional biointerface for PLLA stent materials, markedly improving their biocompatibility. Further research into the diverse applications of this coating in vascular implants is warranted.

Poly-l-lactic acid microspheres delay aging of epidermal stem cells in rat skin.

Objective: Injectable skin fillers offer a wider range of options for cutaneous anti-aging and facial rejuvenation. PLLA microspheres are increasingly favored as degradable and long-lasting fillers. The present study focused solely on the effect of PLLA on dermal collagen, without investigating its impact on the epidermis. In this study, we investigated the effects of PLLA microspheres on epidermal stem cells (EpiSCs). Methods: Different concentrations of PLLA microspheres on epidermal stem cells (EpiSCs) in vitro through culture, and identification of primary rat EpiSCs. CCK-8 detection, apoptosis staining, flow cytometry, Transwell assay, wound healing assay, q-PCR analysis, and immunofluorescence staining were used to detect the effects of PLLA on EpiSCs. Furthermore, we observed the effect on the epidermis by injecting PLLA into the dermis of the rat skin in vivo. Results: PLLA microspheres promote cell proliferation and migration while delaying cell senescence and maintaining its stemness. In vitro, Intradermal injection of PLLA microspheres in the rat back skin resulted in delayed aging, as evidenced by histological and immunohistochemical staining of the skin at 2, 4, and 12 weeks of follow-up. Conclusion: This study showed the positive effects of PLLA on rat epidermis and EpiSCs, while providing novel insights into the anti-aging mechanism of PLLA.

Epoxidized Soybean Oleic Acid/Oligomeric Poly(lactic acid)-Grafted Nano-Hydroxyapatite and Its Role as a Filler in Poly(L-lactide) for Potential Bone Fixation Application.

One of the most effective strategies for modifying the surface properties of nano-fillers and enhancing their composite characteristics is through polymer grafting. In this study, a coprecipitation method was employed to modify hydroxyapatite (HAP) with epoxidized soybean oleic acid (ESOA), resulting in ESOA-HAP. Subsequently, oligomeric poly(lactic acid) (OPLA) was grafted onto the surface of ESOA-HAP, yielding OPLA-ESOA-HAP. HAP, ESOA-HAP, and OPLA-ESOA-HAP were comprehensively characterized. The results demonstrate the progressive grafting of ESOA and OPLA onto the surface of HAP, resulting in enhanced hydrophobicity and improved dispersity in organic solvent for OPLA-ESOA-HAP compared to HAP. The vitality and adhesion of Wistar rat mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were assessed using HAP and modified HAP materials. Following culture with MSCs for 72 h, the OPLA-ESOA-HAP showed an inhibition rate lower than 23.0% at a relatively high concentration (1.0 mg/mL), which is three times lower compared to HAP under similar condition. The cell number for OPLA-ESOA-HAP was 4.5 times higher compared to HAP, indicating its superior biocompatibility. Furthermore, the mechanical properties of the OPLA-ESOA-HAP/PLLA composite almost remained unaltered ever after undergoing two stages of thermal processing involving melt extrusion and inject molding. The increase in the biocompatibility and relatively high mechanical properties render OPLA-ESOA-HAP/PLLA a potential material for the biodegradable fixation system.

Immunomodulatory poly(L-lactic acid) nanofibrous membranes promote diabetic wound healing by inhibiting inflammation, oxidation and bacterial infection.

Background: Given the significant impact on human health, it is imperative to develop novel treatment approaches for diabetic wounds, which are prevalent and serious complications of diabetes. The diabetic wound microenvironment has a high level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and an imbalance between proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cells/factors, which hamper the healing of chronic wounds. This study aimed to develop poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) nanofibrous membranes incorporating curcumin and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), defined as PLLA/C/Ag, for diabetic wound healing. Methods: PLLA/C/Ag were fabricated via an air-jet spinning approach. The membranes underwent preparation and characterization through various techniques including Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, measurement of water contact angle, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, assessment of in vitro release of curcumin and Ag+, testing of mechanical strength, flexibility, water absorption and biodegradability. In addition, the antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of the membranes were evaluated in vitro, and the ability of the membranes to heal wounds was tested in vivo using diabetic mice. Results: Loose hydrophilic nanofibrous membranes with uniform fibre sizes were prepared through air-jet spinning. The membranes enabled the efficient and sustained release of curcumin. More importantly, antibacterial AgNPs were successfully reduced in situ from AgNO3. The incorporation of AgNPs endowed the membrane with superior antibacterial activity, and the bioactivities of curcumin and the AgNPs gave the membrane efficient ROS scavenging and immunomodulatory effects, which protected cells from oxidative damage and reduced inflammation. Further results from animal studies indicated that the PLLA/C/Ag membranes had the most efficient wound healing properties, which were achieved by stimulating angiogenesis and collagen deposition and inhibiting inflammation. Conclusions: In this research, we successfully fabricated PLLA/C/Ag membranes that possess properties of antioxidants, antibacterial agents and anti-inflammatory agents, which can aid in the process of wound healing. Modulating wound inflammation, these new PLLA/C/Ag membranes serve as a novel dressing to enhance the healing of diabetic wounds.

A morphological analysis of calcium hydroxylapatite and poly-l-lactic acid biostimulator particles.

Injectable fillers, pivotal in aesthetic medicine, have evolved significantly with recent trends favoring biostimulators like calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA-CMC; Radiesse, Merz Aesthetics, Raleigh, NC) and poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA; Sculptra Aesthetics, Galderma, Dallas, TX). This study aims to compare the particle morphology of these two injectables and examine its potential clinical implications. Utilizing advanced light and scanning electron microscopy techniques, the physical characteristics of CaHA-CMC and PLLA particles were analyzed, including shape, size, circularity, roundness, aspect ratio, and quantity of phagocytosable particles. The findings reveal several morphological contrasts: CaHA-CMC particles exhibited a smooth, homogenous, spherical morphology with diameters predominantly ranging between 20 and 45 µm, while PLLA particles varied considerably in shape and size, appearing as micro flakes ranging from 2 to 150 µm in major axis length. The circularity and roundness of CaHA-CMC particles were significantly higher compared to PLLA, indicating a more uniform shape. Aspect ratio analysis further underscored these differences, with CaHA-CMC particles showing a closer resemblance to circles, unlike the more oblong PLLA particles. Quantification of the phagocytosable content of both injectables revealed a higher percentage of phagocytosable particles in PLLA. These morphological distinctions may influence the tissue response to each treatment. CaHA-CMC's uniform, spherical particles may result in reduced inflammatory cell recruitment, whereas PLLA's heterogeneous particle morphology may evoke a more pronounced inflammatory response.

Complications of collagen biostimulators in Brazil: Description of products, treatments, and evolution of 55 cases.

BACKGROUND: Complications of temporary and permanent fillers have been extensively studied. However, there is a lack of comparative data regarding poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHA), and polycaprolactone (PCL) known as collagen biostimulators. AIMS: This study addressed the complications of collagen biostimulators concerning their diagnosis, type of product, treatment, and monitoring. PATIENTS/METHODS: An electronic questionnaire was sent to Brazilian dermatologic ultrasound experts to identify complications related to biostimulators. The type of biostimulator, location of application, number of vials injected, application plan, time between injection treatment and complication, injector profile, treatment, and prognosis were assessed. RESULTS: Fifty-five cases were identified, of which 49.1% were caused by PLLA-Elleva®, 23.6% by CaHA (alone or combined with hyaluronic acid), 20.0% by PLLA-Sculptra®, and 7.3% by PCL. The most affected area was the face (72.7%), with nodules being the most common clinical form (89.1%), generally occurring late (60.0%) (>1 month). Only one case was injected at an incorrect depth (musculoaponeurotic system-SMAS). Despite several treatments, including saline (45.5%), hyaluronidase (25.5%), diluted corticosteroids (23.6%), and energy-based devices (10.9%), only five cases showed complete resolution. Hyaluronidase was beneficial in complications related to fillers when there was an association of calcium hydroxyapatite with hyaluronic acid (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Complications from collagen biostimulators were more common on the face, typically manifesting about 1 month after treatment. These issues seemed to be related more to the properties of the products rather than inadequate technique. Furthermore, hyaluronidase demonstrated efficacy only in cases where there was an association with HA.

Thread Lifting Materials: A Review of Its Difference in Terms of Technical and Mechanical Perspective.

Thread lifting involves the use of slender materials, reminiscent of threads, for aesthetic procedures. These materials are distinct from traditional sutures and vary in composition, purpose, and performance. The introduction delves into the literal and material significance of threads, establishing the broad concept of thread lifting materials. The article revisits the evolution of thread lifting materials, emphasizing the preexistence of cog threads for tissue manipulation before their widespread adoption in plastic surgery. Observations regarding the efficacy and longevity of absorbable versus non-absorbable threads are discussed, stressing the efficiency of high-quality absorbable cog threads. The conclusion underlines the proliferation of thread lifting materials beyond PDO, highlighting the importance of considering multiple factors beyond duration when selecting threads for lifting procedures.

Cytocompatibility of electrospun poly-L-lactic acid membranes for Bruch's membrane regeneration using human embryonic stem cell-derived retinal pigment epithelial cells.

Cell replacement therapy is under development for dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). A thin membrane resembling the Bruch's membrane is required to form a cell-on-membrane construct with retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. These cells have been differentiated from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) in vitro. A carrier membrane is required for cell implantation, which is biocompatible for cell growth and has dimensions and physical properties resembling the Bruch's membrane. Here a nanofiber electrospun poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) membrane is tested for capacity to support cell growth and maturation. The requirements for laminin coating of the membrane are identified here. A porous electrospun nanofibrous PLLA membrane of ∼50 nm fiber diameter was developed as a prototype support for functional RPE cells grown as a monolayer. The need for laminin coating applied to the membrane following treatment with poly-L-ornithine (PLO), was identified in terms of cell growth and survival. Test membranes were compared in terms of hydrophilicity after laminin coating, mechanical properties of surface roughness and Young's modulus, porosity and ability to promote the attachment and proliferation of hESC-RPE cells in culture for up to 8 weeks. Over this time, RPE cell proliferation, morphology, and marker and gene expression, were monitored. The functional capacity of cell monolayers was identified in terms of transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER), phagocytosis of cells, as well as expression of the cytokines, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF). PLLA polymer fibers are naturally hydrophobic, so their hydrophilicity was improved by pretreatment with PLO for subsequent coating with the bioactive protein laminin. They were then assessed for amount of laminin adsorbed, contact angle and uniformity of coating using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Pretreatment with 100% PLO gave the best result over 10% PLO treatment or no treatment prior to laminin adsorption with significantly greater surface stiffness and modulus. By 6 weeks after cell plating, the coated membranes could support a mature RPE monolayer showing a dense apical microvillus structure and pigmented 3D polygonal cell morphology. After 8 weeks, PLO (100%)-Lam coated membranes exhibited the highest cell number, cell proliferation, and RPE barrier function measured as TEER. RPE cells showed the higher levels of specific surface marker and gene expression. Microphthalmia-associated transcription factor expression was highly upregulated indicating maturation of cells. Functionality of cells was indicated by expression of VEGF and PEDF genes as well as phagocytic capacity. In conclusion, electrospun PLLA membranes coated with PLO-Lam have the physical and biological properties to support the distribution and migration of hESC-RPE cells throughout the whole structure. They represent a good membrane candidate for preparation of hESC-RPE cells as a monolayer for implantation into the subretinal space of AMD patients.

Application of poly(L-lactic acid)-based films for equilibrium modified atmosphere packaging of "Kyoho" grapes and its favorable protection for anthocyanins.

Grapes were packaged by different Poly (L-lactic acid)-based packaging films (PLTL-PLEL) and stored at 5 °C for 35 days to investigate the effects of equilibrium modified atmosphere packaging on the quality of "Kyoho" grapes during storage. Changes in physiochemical quality, antioxidant content and senescence of grapes were studied. Furthermore, UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS was used to observe and identify key factors influencing the variation of grape anthocyanins under different atmosphere conditions. Alterations in gas components and enzyme activities significantly impacted anthocyanin levels, highlighting oxygen concentration as the primary influence on total anthocyanin levels. The PLTL-PLEL50 packaging resulted in an approximate 5.7% lower weight loss and increased soluble solids by approximately 14.4%, vitamin C, total phenols and flavonoids reaching 60.2 mg/100 g, 8.4 mg/100 g and 7.2 mg/100 g, respectively. This packaging also preserved higher anthocyanin levels, with malvidin-3-glucoside and peonidin-3-glucoside at 0.55 µg/mL and 1.62 µg/mL, respectively, on the 35th day of storage.